2 Corinthians 10 gives us insight into how and why Paul carried out his mission:

3 For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: 4 (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;) 5 Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ; 6 our tools are ready at hand for clearing the ground of every obstruction and building lives of obedience into maturity…8 so even if I boast somewhat freely about the authority the Lord gave us for building you up rather than tearing you down, I will not be ashamed of it…12 For we dare not make ourselves of the number, or compare ourselves with some that commend themselves: but they measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise…15 We do not boast beyond limit in the labors of others. But our hope is that as your faith increases, our area of influence among you may be greatly enlarged. (2 Corinthians 10.3 – 6, 8, 12, 15, various translations)

The context is Paul’s ministry. 

• The objective: building lives of obedience into maturity (6)
• The means
  • spiritual weapons for casting down imaginations and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to Christ. (3 – 5, compare 2 Corinthians 6.7)
  • An authority which builds up rather than tears down (8, compare 2 Corinthians 13.10)
  • Enlarged area of influence (15)
• The mindset: not one of comparison to others (12)

There are so-called spiritual leaders, some famous, some not so famous, who would say that they want to “build lives of obedience into maturity” and “enlarge their area of influence,” but they don’t do it the same way. They often use their authority to tear down rather than build up. They compare themselves to others. (A mega church pastor once said, “I can’t learn anything from [another more experienced pastor]. My church is bigger than his church.”) They often use “carnal weapons” – screaming at people, for example.

“Not by might nor by power but by my Spirit,” says the Lord. (Zechariah 4.6)

What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you. (Philippians 4.9, ESV)